Getting over retirement guilt

June 15, 2019 @ 5.54pm

healthcaretoday, retirement, muscle mass, senior citizens, ageing, ageing population, gardening, dementia,

Traveling, especially with your spouse or as a group is an effective way to combat isolation.

If you're into your retirement and feeling guilty or filled with other emotions that are blocking the way to enjoying yourself, there are things you can do to brighten your outlook.

1. Join a gym
As part of normal ageing, we lose on average about 1 to 2 percent of muscle mass per year by the age of 50. In the 60s, the loss may begin to affect physical ability and in our 70s, it is estimated that we lose 20 to 40 percent of our strength due to muscle loss — that is if we are sedentary. Part of the solution to counteract loss of muscle mass and strength is exercise and, in particular, strength training.

2. Continue your hobbies
Skip the golf cart and walk the average course for your round of golf. Play at off-peak times so you're walking more consistently and not waiting around. If you carry your clubs or pull them yourself, you'll benefit even more.

Then there is gardening, which is also very popular in senior communities and for those living independently. Raking and hoeing help tone your arms, shoulders, chest and back.

Digging targets your glutes and thighs. Planting a herb or vegetable garden will get you outside with more regularity to tend to your crops. And, of course, you'll be able to eat what you sow.

To avoid injury when gardening, remember to use good posture and keep all your motions steady and smooth.

3. Become politically active

4. Try something new such as a new language, travelling or photography

5. Go back to school by signing up and learning an area of interest you’ve always wanted too. If you’re homebound, take courses online.

6. Volunteer at local society, library, hospitals and nursing homes. Volunteering will get you out and with people of all generations.

7. Immerse yourself in culture by planning trips to local art galleries, museums and science centres to learn new things and see what you can recall. If you aren't mobile, visit cultural institutions online.

8. Get into games by looking for neighbors, members of your religious organisation or senior centre who are interested in similar pursuits and form a group that meets regularly to play.

9. Become an emeritus by using your professional skills. If you were a teacher, consider reading to, or recording books for the visually impaired.